New Years thank you.

Good luck to all my fellow driving instructors for 2016.  Also good luck to all my pupils in 2016.
Safe and happy driving.

New Year for driving lessons

Its almost here, the start of 2016 for driving lessons.

So its the 31st and most people look back on the year and smile about the up's and down's.   

If you are having driving lessons at the moment then you must be thinking that 2016 is your year to pass the practical driving test, good luck and safe driving.  

If you haven't started driving lessons then 2016 could be the start of your biggest adventure, so go on the internet and start looking up local approved driving instructors and start enquiring about start dates.  You will be surprised to know that a lot of instructors are busy but are only too willing to discuss how they can help you get started with your driving lessons. 

So what is putting you off.

Are you thinking, get my theory passed first.  Your driving instructor can help you with that at the same time as having your driving lessons.

Is it the thought of contacting a person who you don't know.  Then ask a friend to refer a driving instructor, or e mail them rather than talking over the phone.

Are you looking for the special offers on lesson prices.  You will be surprised to know that driving lessons prices range from £20 to £30 per hour on average. 

Are you not sure what you need to start.  You will need a provisional driving licence and be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5 meters. Your driving instructor will check your eye sight on your first lesson, but if your are worried then just have an eye sight check. 

So 2016 could be your year too.  Even if you start everything in January you will of passed before the end of the year.  

Good luck and make 2016 your year .

www.drive-travis.co.uk

 

Driving test around the world

Did you know that in Mexico, as long as you are over 18, you can literally buy a licence for very little money! The link below is an info-graphic driving tests around the world. Hope you all like it.
http://www.fawheels.co.uk/images/Driving-Tests-Around-The-World-Infographic.jpg

First aid for wheels
http://www.fawheels.co.uk/kerbed-alloys-london.html

Driving this Christmas.

Christmas is nearly here and most people would of been out trying to buy for your loved ones.  If you are like me and leave it till the last minute they you are not alone.  But remember to give yourself more time to park your car, as lots of spaces will be full this time of year.  Also give yourself more time to get to the shops.  Lots more traffic on the roads means queues of traffic are likely.
So if you give yourself plenty of time to arrive, shop and come back home then it should be a stressless day out.  
www.drive-travis.co.uk

Driving lessons in Milton Keynes

If you are looking for quality driving lessons in the Milton Keynes area then you are at the right place.  That is what Deni done and now she is a Full Licence Holder.

I have put two links below to help you.  One for my website, it has lots of information on driving including over 100 customer reviews and the cost of the driving lessons.
www.drive-travis.co.uk
If you want to watch some of my videos of driving around Milton Keynes and tips to improve your driving you my You Tube channel link is below, feel free to subscribe.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC94rkNhixyVA2N_UYTQyVeg
I hope the links help you, safe driving around Milton Keynes.

Try the FREE theory test practice

Hi, the DVSA has a FREE theory practice test for all.  I have put the link below.  Hope it helps you and if you want more FREE theory test practice then check out the links on my website below..

http://www.safedrivingforlife.info/take-official-free-practice-driving-theory-test/car-practice-theory-tests/car-practice-test-one
http://www.drive-travis.co.uk/apps/links/

Spiral Roundabouts

Spiral roundabouts in Milton Keynes.

www.drive-travis.co.uk

Driving test passes 2015

A short slideshow of some of my pupils who passed this year.

Safe driving around Milton Keynes to all of them.

Left reverse in Milton Keynes

I was on a driving lesson in Milton keynes.  My pupil was picking up the left reverse manoeuvre at a good rate.  So we agreed to record it to look back on to see if there was areas that she could improve on.  At the end she was pleased with the observations and the control of the car and also agreed to show it.

Bletchley driving test routes.

The main thing with Bletchley is you need to know the area well. There are a lot of speed changes on the Bletchley routes, including National Speed Limits, so you need to be aware of the speed limit of the roads you are on.

I would recommend having driving lessons with a approved driving instructor in the area.  They can give you a full assessment of your driving and tell you how many hours (if any) you would need to get to driving test standard.

www.drive-travis.co.uk

http://www.route-led.com/bletchley-driving-test-centre.asp

Check out my Youtube channel for help and advise on improving your driving skills
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC94rkNhixyVA2N_UYTQyVeg

Tips for buying a car

Buying a used car

What you need to think about

Buying a used car is a great way of cutting the cost of your driving as most new cars lose around 40% of their value in the first year.

But there are risks so it's important to take your time rather than rush into any deal, and to buy as far as possible with your head rather than your heart.

Pitfalls when buying a used car

Clocking

Clocking is the illegal practice of winding back the odometer on a high–mileage car to increase its apparent value and asking price. Every 1,000 miles removed increases the value substantially.

More about clocking »

Car cloning

Sometimes one car is given the identity of another by replacing the number plates with those from an almost identical vehicle - same make, model and colour.

More about car cloning »

'Cut–and–shut'

This is when the remains of two or more cars, which have usually been accident–damaged and written off by insurers, are welded together, then illegally given the identity of one of the wrecks.

The cosmetic work is often outstanding, and it's usually very difficult to spot a 'cut–and–shut' from the outside.

For absolute confidence, invest in a Car Data Check to unearth the car's history.

General advice

Wherever you choose to buy, here are some general tips on buying a used car.

Budget carefully

Get insurance quotes and check car tax rates before signing on the bottom line, and remember to factor in the cost of any work that might be needed too.

If you're going to borrow money to buy the car it's a good idea to get loan quotes before you go out to view any cars.  That way you'll know what you can afford and will be able to tell whether any finance a dealer offers you is good value or not.

Do your homework

Check price guides and compare similar cars in the classifieds so you know as much as you can about the value of different cars to avoid being overcharged.

Websites like www.honestjohn.co.uk  and model-specific forum sites can be a useful source of information on 'common' faults and 'what to look for' tips but bear in mind that the few who've had a poor experience are likely to be more outspoken than satisfied customers.

Don't view a car in the rain, in poor light or at night

You won't be able to check the condition of the car properly if it's wet – water hides scratches, dents and other problems. Make sure you can see the vehicle clearly and from all angles.

Ask about service history

Most cars require some work during the year so the owners of a car a few years old should have amassed quite a sheaf of garage bills for work or parts as well as previous MOT certificates, and records of regular servicing.

• If there's no history then ask why
• Does it look like there might be a persistent fault that still may not have been fixed?
• Does the history tell a consistent story

V5C registration document

Insist on seeing the V5C vehicle registration document - this shows the registered keeper and not the legal owner.

Is the present keeper the person selling you the car?  If not, then why are they selling the car for someone else?

The V5C shows the details of previous keepers too. Why not contact them to find out more about when they owned the car, what work was done and how many miles they covered?

Previous keepers have no vested interest so you should be able to rely on their comments

• Did they service it regularly?
• Did they do much mileage in it?
• Did they have any major servicing work done it?
• Did they modify the vehicle in any way?

MOT

If the car is three years old or more make sure there's a continuous series of annual MOT 'certificates'.

If you know the vehicle's registration number and the document reference on the V5C you can check a vehicle's MOT status and history (back to 2005) online too.

You can also enquire by telephone.  Contact the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency's (VOSA's) MOT status line on 0870 330 0444.

Recorded mileage should increase steadily with age and be consistent with the service record. If it doesn't then you'll want to hear a good explanation as to why not.

Buyer beware

Be wary of anything that seems like a real bargain, or has a very low mileage for its age.  There are bargains to be had but in general, if a deal looks too good to be true then it most likely is.

If you know what you're doing then use our DIY inspection checklist to help make sure you look the car over thoroughly.

To help you avoid making a mistake when you buy a used car, get an AA Car Data Check and consider getting the car looked over by AA Vehicle Inspections.

Cam belt

As well as regular (usually annual) servicing there are major items like brake fluid, antifreeze or cam belt renewal that car manufacturers specify should be done at a certain age or mileage.

If a cam belt breaks the resulting damage is likely to run into several thousand pounds and often a new engine is the most economical option.

Some engines have a chain instead of a belt and these normally last the life of the vehicle but if your car does have a belt you must make sure it's replaced when due.

If a belt change was due but the service record doesn't show clearly that it was done then the belt will have to be renewed as soon as possible for peace of mind.

Handbook

Make sure the handbook is in the car as they can be expensive to replace if not.

Look to see how the security system works – and check that it does – and find out what keys were provided when the car was new. Modern car keys can cost £100+ to replace so if you need more than one key and there's only one available you'll need to bear that cost in mind.

Coloured 'master' keys provided by some manufacturers to programme new spare keys for the car are even more expensive to replace.

There's no legal requirement but cars are generally sold new with at least one spare key.  If there's not a spare now ask why not.

Test Drive

The test drive is your only opportunity to check the car's general mechanical condition and to find our for sure that it meets all your needs:

• Is the driving position comfortable?
• Can you reach/operate all the controls easily?
• Do the child seats fit?
• Does the golf bag or pushchair fit in the boot?

More test drive advice »

Look carefully

Misaligned panels or mismatched colours on doors, bonnet and tailgate can indicate that the car has been repaired after a shunt.  Traces of spray paint on door handles, window seals and mouldings can indicate repairs too.

If the engine bay looks like it has recently been power-washed clean the owner could be trying to remove evidence of fluid leaks.  A check under the bonnet after a lengthy test drive should reveal any problems.

Seats and carpets

Seats and carpets can always be cleaned, or even replaced, but stains on internal fabric head–linings are impossible to remove completely.

If seat covers have been fitted, check underneath them for signs of damage.  You can get seats replaced but this can be very expensive, particularly if they contain electric motors or airbags.

Locking wheel nuts

Adaptors for locking wheel nuts have a habit of going missing. If locking wheel nuts are fitted, check to make sure that the special adaptor required is included with the toolkit and that it fits the nuts.

Don't be pressured into buying

There are always other vehicles out there so if this one doesn't feel right in any way it's time to walk away.

Be wary of and don't be swayed by  'sob stories'  like change of job, break-up of relationship, moving aboard, new baby on the way and so on.  The bottom line is that you're buying a car to help yourself, not anyone else.

Before you hand over any money

• Agree collection/delivery arrangements
• Confirm exactly what's included in the price
• Confirm any work that the seller has agreed to do
• Make sure you get a receipt showing vehicle details, price, terms of sale and the seller's details.

http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/car-buyers-guide/cbg_usedtips.html

www.drive-travis.co.uk

ADI web chat with DFT

Webchat: a new approach to driving tests

On Monday 14 December, the Department for Transport (DfT) is hosting a webchat about the Motoring Services Strategy consultation.

DfT is encouraging approved driving instructors (ADIs) to take part and share their views, particularly about: what could be done to make sure that candidates are better prepared for their practical test whether a financial incentive would encourage learners to sit their test when they have a better chance of passing The webchat will take place between 7pm and 8pm. Read the consultation.

Cross Winds

Cross Winds
Cross winds is where the wind blows across the side of the car or roads which makes driving a bit tricky.
You could encounter a cross wind when driving along a road that has been protected by trees and becomes more open flat fields, or if you pass a large HGV. 
This is where the wind will push against the side of the car causing it to move to either left or right. If you are expecting it could happen then keep a firm grip of the steering wheel and readjust the car back into the centre of your lane. If you are passing a large HGV then give it a bit more space and try not to stay in its blind spot for too long.www.drive-travis.co.uk

Help yourself with E-co driving

E-co Smart Driving 

For many, driving is a necessity but why spend more on it than you need to?  By driving smarter the average UK driver could save between £300 - £350 each year. With prices continuing to rise, now is an excellent time to start to learn to drive more efficiently. Make sure that you are not using the car when better methods of transport are available and you could save even more.  

Smart driving is easy to do and will reduce your cost of driving.  Try ourFuel your passion app to see how much you can save.

Our top tips for smart driving:

Fuel efficient driving techniques cut fuel costs and reduce the wear and tear on your car. Making you a smarter driver – simply follow our smart driving tips below. 

Techniques to try when you’re driving

Switch it off – If it is safe to do so, turn off your engine when stationary for more than a minute or two. Modern cars use virtually no extra fuel when they’re re-started without pressing the accelerator so you won’t waste lots of fuel turning the car back on. 

Shift to a higher gear as soon as possible - Driving at lower engine speeds reduces fuel consumption. Change up a gear between 2000 and 2500 revolutions per minute (rpm).

Drive smoothly - Anticipate the road as far ahead as possible to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Decelerate early when slowing down.

Slow down - Avoid excessive speeds when possible. Driving at 85mph uses approximately 25% more fuel than 70mph. 

Close your windows if travelling at 60mph or more – The aerodynamic drag on your car of an open window at speeds of 60mph or more adds to your fuel usage.  Keep your windows closed at high speeds.

Get your car in shape

Check tyre pressure frequently – at least once a month and before long journeys. Under-inflated tyres are not only dangerous and but also increase your fuel consumption. While checking tyre pressure, it is also advisable to check the depth of the tyre tread to ensure they are legally compliant.

Lighten your load - Carrying excess weight in a vehicle increases fuel consumption as your car has to work harder to accelerate. Remove heavy objects and clear your boot of unnecessary items so that you can travel as lightly as possible.

Air conditioning – use air conditioning sparingly as your engine has to work harder to power the air conditioning machinery.  If driving at low speed, open the window instead.  

Remove roof boxes and racks if not being used – Car designers strive to make their vehicles as aerodynamic as possible.  Adding a roof box or rack spoils this by increasing drag on your car, making your engine work harder and increasing fuel usage, particularly at high speeds.

Don’t warm the engine – modern engines don’t need to be “warmed up” so idling before you start a journey simply wastes precious fuel.

Download our Eco-driving tips for more information. 

http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Travel/Driving
www.drive-travis.co.uk

Driving tips for wet weather

1. Routinely check your tyres…

Always check your tyres before you hit the road. Make sure you do the following routine maintenance:

Keep your tyres properly inflated. The correct air pressure for your tyres is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and can be found on the vehicle door edge, door-post, and glove box door or fuel door. It is also listed in the owner's manual. The number listed on the side of the tyre is not the recommended air pressure for your tyre – it is the maximum air pressure for the tyre. You should check your tyre's air pressure at least once a month.

Check the tyres tread depth. Proper tread depth will help prevent skids and aquaplaning.

2. Slow down.

As rain falls, it mixes with grime and oil on the road creating slick conditions perfect for skids. The best way to avoid skidding is to slow down. Driving at a slower pace allows more of the tire's tread to make contact with the road, which leads to better traction.

3. Know how to recover from a skid.

Skids can happen even to the most cautious drivers. If your car does skid, remember not to slam on the brakes. Do not pump the brakes if you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Instead, apply firm, steady pressure to the brakes and steer the car in the direction of the skid.

4. Keep your distance from the car ahead.

Wet-weather driving demands gentle use of all the main controls – steering, clutch, brake and accelerator – and a larger allowance for errors and emergencies. When you begin a journey in rain, your shoes will be wet and can easily slip off the pedals. Scuff the soles on the rubber matting or carpeting of the car before you start the engine. All motorists should regularly check that their headlights, rear lights, brake lights and turn indicators are working properly. It takes about three times longer to break on wet roads than on dry roads. Since more distance is required to brake, it is important not to tailgate. Keep a little more than two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.

5. Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.

Avoid using your brakes. Whenever possible, slow down by taking your foot off the accelerator.Turn your headlights on, even in light rain. Not only do they help you see the road, but they'll help other drivers see you. If your car has daytime running lights, you should turn them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.

6. Prepare for your journey.

Wet-weather driving demands gentle use of all the main controls – steering, clutch, brake and accelerator – and a larger allowance for errors and emergencies. When you begin a journey in rain, your shoes will be wet and liable to slip off the pedals. Scuff the soles on the rubber matting or carpeting of the car before you start the engine. All motorists should regularly check that their headlights, rear lights, brake lights and turn indicators are working properly.

7. Learn how to avoid and deal with aquaplaning.

Aquaplaning happens when the water in front of your tyres builds up faster than your car's weight can push it out of the way. The water pressure causes your car to rise up and slide on a thin layer of water between your tyres and the road. At this point, your car can be completely out of contact with the road, and you are in danger of skidding or drifting out of your lane, or even off the road. To avoid aquaplaning, keep your tyres properly inflated, ensure that the tread non skid is above the legal limits on your tyres and replace them when necessary, slow down when roads are wet, and stay away from puddles. Try to drive in the tyre tracks left by the cars in front of you. If you find yourself Aquaplaning, do not brake or turn suddenly. This could throw your car into a skid. Ease your foot off the accelerator until the car slows and you can feel the road again. If you need to brake, do so gently with light pumping actions. If your car has ABS, then brake normally; the car's computer will mimic a pumping action, when necessary.

8. If the rain becomes too heavy, stop!

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades, allowing an almost continuous sheet of water to flow over the screen. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas. If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.

9. First rain make the road very slippery.

The first rain always make the roads the most difficult to drive on, as the mud and oil on the dry road combines with the water and forms a rather slippery layer. Drivers are likely to experience reduced control, and are cautioned to be extra careful for the first half-hour after it begins to rain.

10. Cloudy weather reduces visibility.

Use extra caution when passing other vehicles.

11. Dry your brakes after driving through standing water.

If you have driven through standing water deep enough to get your brake shoes wet, apply the brakes lightly to dry them.

12. Don't drive while fatigued.

Stop at least every couple of hours or every hundred miles to rest.

http://www.goodyear.eu/uk_en/tire-advice/safe-driving/driving-tips/rain-driving.jsp
www.drive-travis.co.uk

My first driving lesson

Your first driving lesson.
All good instructors will cover a similar pattern on the first lesson, with a few variations depending on your location and if you have never driven a car before. So lets assume you have not driven before.

1. You will be given an eye sight test first.
2. You will be driven to a quiet location to start your lesson.
3. At this point you are in the drivers seat and the instructor will cover the cockpit drill. The cockpit drill is how to set up the car to fit you, example is moving the seat and mirrors etc.
4. After the cockpit drill is completed you will work on control of the foot pedals, clutch control (how to find the biting point), how to set the gas pedal.
5. The final part of your driving lesson will be working on moving away from the road under control and safely, then pulling over back in to the side of the road safely
www.drive-travis.co.uk